Fisks Gateway issue 82

The property & lifestyle magazine brought to you by FISKS / Issue 82

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Upgrades that WON’T add value to your property Picking the perfect smelling houseplant Boosting your immune system Benfleet new builds show home flats now available to view This month’s properties

CONTENTS UPGRADES THAT WON’T ADD VALUE TO YOUR PROPERTY We shed some light on what home upgrades WON’T add value to your property

PICKING THE PERFECT SMELLING HOUSEPLANT It’s time to get those toxic air fresheners out of your home and instead invest in one of our beautiful smelling houseplants.

BOOSTING YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM Boost your immune system before those cold winter months.

BENFLEET NEW BUILDS - SHOW HOME FLATS NOW AVAILABLE TO VIEW In case you missed them last month, discover a beautiful collection of spacious one and twobedroom family apartments on the edge of Benfleet.

Welcome to our

magazine If you’ve been waiting for updates regarding our new builds at Forest View then you’re in luck, we have show home flats ready to view now. To find out more information on these new builds then please do give us a call, we’ll be more than happy to help.

In this issue of Gateway, we take a look at what home upgrades don’t increase the value of your property, what houseplants to choose to make your home smell fresh throughout the year, and we give you some advice on protecting yourself this winter from that common winter cold and flu. Enjoy!

John Pring FNAEA(Honoured) & MARLA | Director

Upgrades that WON’T add value to your property...

We shed some light on what home upgrades WON’T add value to your property.

Giving your home a bit of a makeover before putting it on the market is a great way to add value to your property.

We all know that having a great kitchen and bathroom will increase the value of your property, but not all things you do will increase it - we take a look at what home upgrades WON’T pay off when you sell.

EXTENSIVE LANDSCAPING Landscaping can definitely improve your property’s appeal, but don’t get too carried away or it will cost you more money than it’s worth, and more time too. Don’t go spending hundreds on exotic plants and flowers when a well-maintained lawn and trimmed hedges can give you that curb appeal with little to no cost.

LIGHTING BLING There is nothing worse than walking around a property that’s dimlylit, so addressing your lighting problems will show off your property in the best light (pun-intended), but don’t expect buyers to pay for your expensive lighting upgrades, instead go with inexpensive lighting, after all, they all do the same trick.

THE LATEST ELECTRONICS Just like lighting, installing the latest expensive electronics is another upgrade that doesn’t pay off. Installing the latest dishwasher or fridge/ freezer often doesn’t make you your money back when selling. If your current electronics aren’t too aged and are still working, then keep them where they are and save yourself some cash.

DON’T OVER-IMPROVE KITCHENS AND BATHROOMS We all know that kitchens and bathrooms are undoubtedly the best rooms to improve on the value of your property. However, now is not the time to make unnecessary changes at huge cost - a lick of paint goes a long way when it comes to giving the whole place a fresh look. If you want to go further, spruce up your bathroom and kitchen with simple fixtures like handles and towel racks.

SOLAR PANELS Even though solar panels seem like a strong selling point, they won’t add enough value to warrant a purchase before you make that life changing move. If you plan on staying put for a few more years, then solar panels are worth considering as you can recoup some cost on billing and get some of the benefits before selling.

NEW PLUMBING As harsh as it is, buyers don’t appreciate upgrades they can’t see, even if it makes their life better in the long run. Instead of doing a complete overhaul on the plumbing (and other bits you may want to address), just ensure it’s all in good working order with no evident problems.

NEW WINDOWS Windows are very expensive to replace so only do so if there are leaks or damage to them. The chances are you won’t get your money back when investing in new windows when you sell so only replace them if 100% needed. If your windows show no sign of damage, then just give them a clean, both indoors and outdoors.

Meet the team...

John Pring Director

Simon Pring Director

Ian Carey Sales Manager

Harriet Plampton Sales & Lettings Consultant

Penny Ash Property Manager

Nicola Rattenberry Director’s P.A.

Leanne Wright Administration Manager

Albie Poole Junior Estate Agent

Tina Webster Management Accountant

FISKS.CO.UK

We cover the whole of South Essex.

Contact us for a free valuation on 01268 565555

Kerrie Watts Property Consultant

Ben Nelson Junior Estate Agent

Our Vision & Strategy The residential estate agency market is increasingly populated by large corporations; nevertheless, our independent family-run estate agency continues to succeed and grow a loyal client base, due to our core values, ethos and flexible approach to clients’ requirements.

FEATURED PROPERTIES

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Picking the perfect smelling houseplant...

It’s time to get those toxic air fresheners out of your home and instead invest in one of our beautiful smelling houseplants.

Despite making your home smell fresh and inviting, a new study has found that artificial air fresheners and scented candles can contain harmful toxins, which cause migraines, asthma attacks and earaches, and also contribute to air pollutant too. If you’ve found yourself suffering from any of the mentioned, then you’ve came to the right place, we’ve rounded up some of the most beautiful aromatic plants to keep your home smelling wonderful and fresh… and more importantly, safe.

Houseplants such as mint and lavender are safer and are a more eco-friendly alternative to air fresheners and candles.

Many houseplants can also have hidden health benefits too such as preventing dry winter skin, reducing air pollution and helping those who suffer with sleep deprivation.

GARDENIA If you own any of the popular perfumes out there at the moment, then there is a good chance that it contains Gardenia is an ingredient. This sweetsmelling houseplant will keep your home smelling fresh for months. Keep the plant in regular bright light, away from too much heat, and water it once a week to keep it healthy for longer.

LAVENDER Everyone knows and (hopefully) loves the smell of lavender. One of the most popular artificial air freshener smells out there, this is a great choice if you’re on the hunt for a houseplant. Keep your lavender on a window sill in sunlight to keep the distinct calming and soothing scent lasting for many months ahead.

CITRUS PLANT Whether you choose a lemon, grapefruit or orange plant, get yourself ready for a high level of maintenance. When growing indoors, make sure your plant gets plenty of sunlight (recommended 8-hours a day) and a soaking once a week. Even though this type of plant requires a high level of maintenance, having a sweet citrus smell radiate throughout the home makes it all worth it.

SCENTED GERANIUM With scents such as apple, lemon and strawberry, you could be forgiven you were choosing from a range of artificial air fresheners and not plants. The range of germaniums available is outstanding if this is your chosen plant - a quick Google search will open up a world of possibilities, plus they only need a watering once every four weeks - win win!

MINT PLANT If you’re one of those people who don’t like traditional flowery fragrances then a fresh smelling mint plant will be perfect for you. It comes as no surprise that the two most popular scents are peppermint and spearmint - both of which emit a delicate aroma. To keep these healthy, you will need to water them three or four times a week.

Why use FISKS? The industry has changed hugely with the development of digital technology - this has created two different styles of agency, the traditional high street agency, and the modern online agency. At Fisks, we believe that the best solution is to be both.

Fisks still do the traditional marketing

Our Ethos & Values

methods that you are comfortable with, such as high street shop locations with

We focus on our clients’ requirements

window displays, applicant mailing lists,

and instructions rather than just doing

text and email facilities, linked offices,

what’s quickest and easiest for us.

portals such as Rightmove, leaflet drops, floor plans, boards and branded cars.

Our comprehensive training program ensures that our staff channels their

These marketing tools have been tried

entrepreneurial spirit and enthusiasm

and tested for many years, but with the

for the benefit of our clients, whilst

ongoing digital revolution we have also

maintaining the professionalism and

embraced change. These new marketing

customer service associated with our

methods come in the form of a digital

brand.

property lifestyle magazine that’s produced in house and emailed to over eight thousand people a month, targeted social media campaigns across all the major platforms such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, 4k video tours of your property for our successful YouTube channel, enhanced portal marketing, and from a customer service point of view, we have vendor log-ins so you can see viewers feedback and offers on your home at any time.

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Audited and insured client accounts to protect your money.

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Legal hotline - specialised property lawyers helping to answer your questions.

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Staff very pleasant, would definitely recommend.”

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Inventories - protect your deposit with a professional inventory, including time stamped photographs.

Inspection - allay your fears that your asset is being looked after.

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Section notices - fully trained and experienced staff can advise and serve the appropriate notice.

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Accurate accounting - from monthly statements to overseas landlords, to expenditure and income, we hold all the information the accountant will need.

... come and put us to the test!

Gas certificates and EPCs - keep your property complying with the law.

Boosting your immune system...

Boost your immune system before those cold winter months.

As the winter months draw near, now is the perfect time to build up your immune system. Getting your daily vitamins is essential if you plan on avoiding that winter flu.

It’s a sad fact that a lot of us don’t eat enough fresh fruits, vegetables and other foods we need to keep ourselves healthy throughout the year. Healthy foods provide many substances to keep us strong and healthy, but you can’t just eat an orange or banana and expect one quick burst of healthy eating to instantly boost your immune system, it takes time and persistence to feel the best you can.

VITAMIN C

VITAMIN D

It’s no secret that citrus fruits are a standout when it comes to vitamin C, but the following sources are also recommended:

Also well known as the sunshine vitamin, vitamin D is one of the most important and powerful nutrients for supporting the immune system. Food sources are limited but include:

Spinach.

Kale.

Salmon.

Bell peppers.

Mackerel.

Brussels sprouts.

Tuna.

Strawberries.

Sardines.

Papaya.

VITAMIN A

VITAMIN E

Vitamin A is a strong infection fighter and comes in two forms - animal foods such as fish, meat and dairy or from plant carotenoids. When choosing carotenoids, the more colourful the better:

Much like vitamin C, vitamin E can be a powerful antioxidant that helps your body fight off infection. Vitamin E is part of nearly 200 biochemical reactions in your body and is critical in how your immune system functions. Think high-fat plant foods when thinking vitamin E:

Carrots.

Sweet potatoes.

Pumpkin.

Butternut squash.

Cantaloupe.

Dark green leafy vegetables.

Almonds.

Peanuts/peanut butter.

Sunflower seeds.

Oils such as sunflower & safflower.

Hazelnuts.

TOP TIP: If you can’t get fresh then choose frozen.

Depending on where you live and what time of year it is, you can’t always get your hands on high-quality fresh produce.

Buying frozen is still a good option - Frozen food can still boost your immune system and are often frozen by the manufacturers at ‘peak’ ripeness, which means they’ll pack a similar nutritional value as their fresh counterparts.

FEATURED PROPERTIES

THE PICKETTS, CANVEY ISLAND £350,000 Two Bedroom Semi Detached Property Two Large Double Bedrooms Good Sized Lounge Ground Floor W/C Large Garden Great Size Plot Newly Fitted Bathroom

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FEATURED PROPERTIES

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BENFLEET NEW BUILDS - SHOW HOME FLATS NOW AVAILABLE TO VIEW...

Discover a beautiful collection of spacious one and two-bedroom family apartments on the edge of Benfleet.

Benfleet new builds.

As Benfleet’s leading local property experts, Fisks are proud to be the sole agent of the Forest View development.

Fisks has been helping individuals and families find a place to call home in the area for over 50 years.

Forest View is unlike any new-build development you’ve seen before. Built over five floors, the development contains 24 distinctive one and twobedroom apartments. Each one of these spacious new family homes has a completely individual layout. So, while the finish is uniformly excellent throughout, every apartment comes with its own unique charm. Which one will become your future home?

With bright and modern open-plan living areas, high-end Beko kitchens, modern bathrooms, plenty of storage and landscaped communal areas, Forest View is so much more than a collection of apartments; it’s a place to call home.

Located just off Bread and Cheese Hill and within touching distance of South Benfleet’s excellent amenities, Forest View boasts an enviable position. It’s perfect for commuters, first-time buyers, new families or anyone looking to escape the bustle of the city and find a place to call their own.

OVERVIEW Forest View is a privately managed collection of 24 desirable modern apartments located just outside of Benfleet. The development has been thoughtfully designed to maximise space, built to the highest standards and is complemented by immaculately landscaped communal areas.

Each apartment comes with a 10-year warranty and a 199-year lease.

Ground rent is charged at £150 per annum for one-bed apartments and £200 for two-bed apartments, and is subject to a 25-year review based on RPI.

A SPECIFICATION FOR MODERN LIVING We’ve chosen a finish that suits everyone’s tastes and ensures that every apartment is light, airy and ready for you to infuse your personality. Quality is guaranteed at Forest View, and to that end, your new home will benefit from things such as modern, spacious living areas with carpets throughout, high-end kitchen complete with Beko appliances, quartz worktops, Celsius bathroom with a 15-year warranty finished with Italian porcelain tiles and versatile storage space.

To register your interest in the Forest View development please contact Fisks today. Head on over to www.fisks.co.uk to view the full brochure.